On March 24, 2023, the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) Director (A) Dr. Alix McLearen provided the commencement speech for the 119th class of the National Sheriffs' Institute (NSI) at the Federal Bureau of Investigations Academy in Quantico, VA. First developed and delivered in the 1970s, the NSI is the only executive leadership program designed specifically for sheriffs. There are over 3,000 sheriffs nationwide operating 85% of the 3,500 jails in America.
The office of sheriff is multifaceted and can include a combination of responsibilities and lines of service, including patrol services, court security, civil process, jail operations, prisoner transportation, and/or criminal investigation. Now, more than ever, sheriffs are called upon to navigate community conversations about justice, equity, and accountability. They must allocate resources strategically, engage and convene diverse community stakeholder groups, and provide healthcare and treatment for justice-involved individuals in their care while ensuring that public safety remains paramount. The NSI prepares sheriffs for matters that affect them the most.
